I began playing drums in 1989 under the instruction of Steve Earle of the seminal Cincinnati band The Afghan Whigs. Upon graduation from college in Ohio I moved to New York, where I worked in book publishing for nearly a decade while also drumming with the indie rock band The National. In 2005, the band released its third full-length record, and its first on the Beggars Banquet/4AD label, "Alligator". Subsequently, I left the publishing industry to tour and record full time with the band, whose later records -- "Boxer" (Beggars Banquet/2007) and "High Violet" (4AD/2010) -- have taken the group across the US, Europe, South America, Asia, Australia, and even to Istanbul HQ in Turkey. Meeting the guys at the factory and seeing the cymbals being crafted there was a very special experience -- one I'll never forget.
In addition to my work with The National, I have performed and/or recorded with artists such as Beth Orton, Bob Weir, Bruce Springsteen, Dave Sitek, Doveman, Emmylou Harris, Gabriel and the Hounds, Glen Hansard, Martha Wainwright, My Brightest Diamond, Norah Jones, Owen Pallett, Philistines Jr., Swell Season, Takka Takka, and Trey Anastasio.
I play C&C drums and Regal Tip sticks. The National will release its latest recording in Spring 2013 on 4AD.
